In a significant push to harness the tourism potential of Karnataka's scenic coastline, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued a clear directive to officials in three key districts. During a coastal tourism conclave held in Mangaluru on Saturday, the CM instructed the administrations of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada to implement a comprehensive five-pronged strategy. This initiative is set to form the core of a proposed new coastal tourism policy for the state.
The Five Distinct Tourism Circuits
Karnataka boasts a 320-kilometer coastline rich with beaches, backwaters, and river islands. To systematically develop this asset, the government has identified 94 beaches and 21 river islands with high tourism potential. District authorities have now categorised these areas into five specialised tourism circuits to maximise opportunities.
The circuits are designed to offer diverse experiences: marine and island tourism; beach and coastline tourism; backwaters and river island tourism; mountain slopes and temple tourism; and Ghats and hill station tourism. Siddaramaiah has asked officials to prepare detailed development plans for each zone.
From Adventure Sports to Cultural Heritage
The development plans are expected to explore a wide array of activities to attract different kinds of travellers. The focus will be on introducing and promoting water sports, aquatic and adventure sports, cruise services, island and fishing tourism, sand sports, boathouses in backwaters, and trekking in hill stations.
Importantly, the CM emphasised integrating a strong cultural component into the tourism model. Traditional events unique to the region, such as the iconic kambala (buffalo race) and 'pilli nalike' (tiger dance), will be promoted under the scheme. Kambala, held annually in over 45 coastal villages and even in Bengaluru, has gained massive popularity and is seen as a major cultural draw.
Beyond Beaches: Holistic Development
The vision extends beyond conventional tourism. District administrations have also been tasked with creating action plans for naturopathy and health tourism, educational research centres, music concerts, and food fairs. This approach aims to highlight the distinctive cultural and lifestyle elements of the three coastal districts, offering a more immersive experience to visitors.
To shape this ambitious project, Siddaramaiah urged officials to study the successful Kerala model of coastal tourism development. The goal is to position Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada as a cleaner and calmer alternative to other crowded coastal destinations, like Goa. This strategic move aims to capture a segment of tourists seeking serene and well-managed coastal getaways.
The conclave in Mangaluru has set the stage for a structured and multi-faceted development of Karnataka's coast. If implemented effectively, this five-circuit strategy could transform the region into a premier tourism hub, boosting the local economy and showcasing the state's natural beauty and cultural wealth to the world.
